Saara Meke Amakali

It is part of life’s natural cycle for things to change. Events such as unemployment, economic changes/inflation and a change in family structures may cause a situation of finding ourselves less prosperous or having less access to resources than we previously had. 

We may want to maintain our lifestyle even when our circumstances do not allow it. These tendencies often come from familial views, personal outlooks and even just the way we programme ourselves. 

There is a subjective inclination of the individual or societal awareness of belonging to a high social class, ‘What will people say if I downgrade?’ fear, as well as the individual perception of having developed a certain purchasing power or standard of living. 

These few examples may escalate the degree to which the fear of change is internalised:

Downgrading or being unable to maintain a certain position can be frustrating. It may lead to social isolation and psychological vulnerability. It may also influence interpersonal interactions and the network of friendship may shrink. 

Equally, adaptation is hard for everyone. The point is that we do not have enough courage to downgrade, as we see this move as too humiliating, although resisting it when it is needed greatly impacts our well-being across the lifespan negatively. 

It takes courage to realise that at some point in life, things will change. It also takes courage and action to move towards a path of positivity and beneficial solutions. 

It is more important to save our sanity than lose sleep in a hidden corner somewhere. Other people’s perceptions should be the last thing to be concerned about. We are where we are, and it is from here that we start. We need to be stronger than we were before.

Subsequently, it all depends on how we define ‘downgrade’. It starts with fixing our mindset regarding this notion, and understanding that it is okay and normal. 

We need to realise our current circumstances, and this comes down to awareness. Understanding why we need to change or downgrade, and aligning it with our purpose is very crucial. Take one step at a time and engage the people in your life, who can help guide you in the right direction. 

I urge that we develop a positive view of change and begin to suggest avenues for the creation of interventions that erode negative perceptions around this concept. 

Let us adopt new values and incorporate new standards towards the ever-changing dynamics of life. Learning how to navigate transitions such as these will lessen the fear and encourage others to make satisfying life adjustments. 

* Saara Meke Amakali is an industrial psychology and sociology scholar and writer. Her writing focuses on creating sustainable societies. 

Email her at saaraamakali@gmail.com